How to Take the Perfect Profile Picture

Here are some tips that will help you to take the (almost) perfect profile picture. Why almost? Because EVERY picture can be made better with some retouching. :) The tips:

  • Have plenty of light. Light is your friend. Soft light will make it easier to see detail in your photo and the colors will be more accurate. Natural lighting is generally better than indoor lighting, but avoid direct hard light (like noon-day sun) because it will create dark shadows. Look for areas in soft shade or take them on an overcast day.
  • Avoid busy or distracting backgrounds. If you want to show your friends your fantastic trip to France, realize it might be hard to fit you and the Eiffel Tower in the limited space that most profile pictures allow. Have a look around you. If you are outdoors avoid having large advertising, garbage cans, etc behind you. If you are indoors avoid having clutter in the background.
  • Dress for the audience. Do you want people to think your sexy or professional? Conservative or fun? Be aware that a photo appropriate on a dating site may not be appropriate on a business networking site.
  • Have fun. Take a friend and make a day out of it. Go to somewhere new and just play with your camera.
  • Use a good camera. Phones with cameras are usually meant to be phones first and cameras second. There might be only so much it is capable of.
  • Take a lot of photos. With digital cameras there is no cost to taking a lot of photos. The more photos you take, the better your chances of getting a great photo.
  • Don't Worry. Once you have your photo ProfilePicMakeover can enhance your overall image and attend to every detail. Post a picture that will make them say WOW.